What happened
During a recent takeoff attempt from runway 20, an aircraft struck treetops and subsequently crashed in a nearby wooded area. The incident occurred shortly after the plane departed the runway. The impact with the trees caused significant damage to the fuselage and both wings, resulting in the aircraft being declared a total loss.
Regarding the occupants, the pilot sustained serious injuries, while the two passengers involved in the accident suffered slight injuries.
According to the operator's director of operations, the runway was covered in standing water and presented soft field conditions. These environmental factors hindered the aircraft's acceleration during the takeoff roll. The pilot reported that he initially utilized only partial power to prevent the engine or airframe from encountering the standing water directly. Although full power was applied after passing the majority of the water, the aircraft failed to reach the necessary speed to lift off before the end of the runway. The pilot noted that the aircraft maintained a nose-high attitude and experienced several bounces on the main wheels before the collision with the trees occurred.
Findings
- The presence of standing water and soft field conditions on the runway contributed to a loss of acceleration.
- The pilot's decision to use partial power at the start of the takeoff roll prevented the aircraft from achieving sufficient velocity to clear the obstacles at the runway's edge.